1. Put it on the calendar. Coffee with a friend? Coffee with a book? A bath? A manicure? Time to write and journal? Just plain quiet? Schedule it.

2. Let go. Whatever your husband or your mom or the babysitter does with the kids and your house and your life while you step out to take some alone time will be fine. They will be fine. They may not do it like you, you might have to backtrack and redo some things… but everyone will be alive and they will have had fun experiencing some exciting hours under someone else’s care. Don’t stress about the how and what while you are away. Enjoy being away.

3. Look up. What is going on around you that you could join? A Bible study? A moms group? A church event for women? Find it and go.

4. Communicate. Our husbands and families want to help. They want to step in and give you a break. They just might not know how. Be clear. Be direct. Speak up for yourself and share what you need. The whole family going out to dinner might give you a break from cooking but it might not be what you need to regroup from the day. Share what you need.

5. This isn’t just about you. Oh, it seems that way. It will feel that way. But honestly? The sayings, “If momma ain’t happy, ain’t nobody happy” and “Happy wife, Happy Life” are TRUE. Taking care of you will bless and help your family. Taking care of you will keep you healthy for many years of serving your family. Taking care of you will reduce moments of depression and keep you from feeling overwhelmed and remind you that you are still a valuable woman with a God-given purpose to accomplish in your family’s lives.

6. Get information. Listen to TED talks about self care. Read a book about taking care of yourself. Lysa is a favorite.

Taking care of yourself will benefit everyone and give you the tools you need to continue taking care of everything around you.

Do it.

For your marriage, for your kids, for your friends. for your family… take care of YOURSELF.